Friary helps aspiring young brass players

photo: Ibstock Place School

Friary returned to Roehampton earlier this month for Ibstock Place School’s  second Brass Day, a project bringing together Friary Brass Band, Ibstock Brass Ensemble, and young novice players from primary schools in the Wandsworth area. 

Ibstock’s Head of Expressive Arts, Nic Walker commented:  ‘We were delighted to welcome back Friary Brass Band after last year’s inaugural Brass Day. The programme was more ambitious for the junior trumpeters this year, and they worked very hard to perform in a Michael Jackson medley, as well as in arrangements of Sambatina and Golden (KPop Demon Hunters).  Friary captured the children’s imaginations with their space-themed set set, from the unusual timbres of Philip Harper’s Rings of Saturn to the energetic rhythms of Starburst by Dan Price.’  ‘It was inspiring for the younger brass players to watch and play alongside Friary, and there were moments of spontaneous applause even during the afternoon rehearsals!’ he added.  ‘Many thanks again to Friary and their guest conductor, Captain Andrew Porter for putting on a great show, and we look forward to collaborating again in 2027, he concluded. 

Friary Chairman David Wicks was equally enthusiastic:  ‘We thoroughly enjoyed our day at Ibstock Place School, working with Nic and the young musicians who were so receptive and worked so hard.  It’s a real pleasure and privilege to support and guide them on their musical journey and we would be delighted to be involved again next year.’